He has started 11 of 12 La Liga fixtures for Barcelona this season and all four of their Champions League matches. Indeed, the only game where he wasn't included in the squad was the Copa del Rey tie with Leonesa.

Last season Rakitic played a part in all but three of Barcelona's league fixtures and all 10 of their European games, starting eight of them.

The hectic season combined with an extended World Cup campaign, where Croatia lost 4-2 in the final to France, has doubtless contributed to his present injury.

But Valverde is clearly willing to maintain his side of the 'PSG pact' as Barcelona chase glory both at home and in Europe.